Five Essential Tips for Aspiring Bartenders

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So, you want to become a bartender? From the outside, bartending might seem glamorous—serving stunning cocktails, putting on a show for your guests, and being the life of the party. But life behind the bar isn’t for everyone. It requires hard work, determination, and a genuine passion for hospitality.

If you’re considering a career as a bartender, here are five essential tips to help you get started on the road to success.

1. Start Learning

Love a Mojito but wouldn’t know where to begin making one? It’s time to hit the books—or the internet. Before submitting your CV, start learning the basics of bartending. Familiarise yourself with essential equipment, classic cocktail recipes, and why certain drinks are served in specific glassware.

There are countless resources available to help you, from books to websites. YouTube channels like Educated Barfly, How To Drink, and Steve the Bartender are hosted by experienced professionals who share expert insights and tips.

You can also attend a cocktail masterclass. While these sessions are popular for parties and hen-dos, they can also teach aspiring bartenders valuable skills, such as free-pouring techniques, equipment breakdowns, and balancing cocktail ratios.

2. Work as a Barback

Starting out as a barback is one of the best ways to gain hands-on experience. Barbacks support bartenders by restocking supplies, cleaning, and assisting with service, all while observing how the bar operates. This behind-the-scenes role provides valuable insight into the fast-paced environment of bartending.

In this position, you'll learn how to manage inventory, keep the bar stocked, and handle essential equipment like the ice machine or taps. Understanding these logistics is crucial for maintaining the bar’s efficiency and will give you a solid foundation when transitioning to bartending. This knowledge helps you work more smoothly under pressure and prepares you for the responsibilities of running your own station.

3. Learn the Lingo

   
   

Why does a guest want their drink served "on the rocks"? What does “86” mean in the context of a bar? The hospitality industry has its own unique terminology, and understanding it is key to efficient service.

Here are a few common terms:

• 86: A product or item that’s out of stock.

• On the fly: A task or order that needs to be completed immediately.

• House pour: The standard liquor a bar offers, as opposed to premium or top-shelf brands.

  
  

For a full list, check out online resources like BinWise, which provides detailed guides to hospitality jargon.

4. Master Multitasking

It’s Saturday night, and the bar is packed. How will you handle dozens of thirsty customers at once? The answer lies in multitasking. Bartenders need to manage multiple drink orders, serve guests quickly, and maintain a friendly demeanour—all at the same time.

With practice, you’ll be able to prepare five, ten, or even thirty drinks simultaneously without sacrificing quality. This skill not only keeps your guests happy but also helps you stand out as a capable and efficient bartender. And trust me—guests will notice!

5. Enjoy Yourself!

Most people go to a bar for a good time, and it’s your job to deliver that experience. While creating the perfect cocktail is important, pairing your bartending skills with a warm, engaging personality is what makes you unforgettable.

Your energy sets the tone for the night. A cheerful, approachable bartender can transform an ordinary drink into a memorable experience. So, smile, have fun, and don’t be afraid to show your personality behind the bar.

Final Thoughts

Bartending can be a demanding profession, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. If you’re passionate about hospitality and dedicated to providing great service, bartending might just be the perfect career for you. No two days are the same, you’ll meet incredible people, and you’ll develop skills you can take anywhere in the world. Above all, you’ll be proud to call yourself a bartender.

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